This video explains albedo - the concept that the brightness of the Earth system (atmosphere, ocean, and land surfaces) determines how much incoming solar energy is immediately reflected back to space. Reflected shortwave energy and land albedo...(View More) products demonstrate the seasonal and geographic variability of this critical climate process. ClimateBits videos are designed for Science On a Sphere (SOS) and also available on YouTube. Links are provided to more information for this topic from the main ClimateBits website (see related & supplemental links).(View Less)

This slide set focuses on the first discovery of an Earth-like planet orbiting a Sun-like star. It is one of a series of short, topical presentations on new developments from NASA astrophysics missions, relevant to introductory astronomy topics....(View More) These resources are intended to help instructors include the latest discoveries (not yet in their textbooks) into their courses. The slide sets are constructed to be easily included as a lecture supplement including synopsis, references, and graphics.(View Less)

This slide set focuses on the discovery of a massive dust cloud in a supernova remnant. It is one of a series of short, topical presentations on new developments from NASA astrophysics missions, relevant to introductory astronomy topics. These...(View More) resources are intended to help instructors include the latest discoveries (not yet in their textbooks) into their courses. The slide sets are constructed to be easily included as a lecture supplement including synopsis, references, and graphics.(View Less)

Students will test various materials to determine if any can shield their "magnetometer" (compass) from an external magnetic field using their own experimental design. If no suitable material is available, they will devise another method to protect...(View More) their instrument. Includes background science for the teacher, worksheets, adaptations and extensions. Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) are also identified.(View Less)

Students simulate the process of remote sensing by using common materials to represent Earth’s different ground coverings and a light meter to represent satellite instruments. The concept of albedo and its importance in Earth’s radiation budget...(View More) are introduced. The lesson uses the 5E instructional model and is part of the book, "Tour of the Electromagnetic Spectrum."(View Less)

This series of posters illustrates the universality of physical laws by connecting the concepts of rotation, speed, distance, pressure, time, mass, density and acceleration to both Olympic competitions and cosmic phenomena. Each poster includes both...(View More) a definition of the physics term and its units of measurement, and features an image of an Olympic/Paralympic athlete, a cosmic event, and a common everyday item as examples of the application of that physics concept. The posters, offered in English, Portuguese, and/or Spanish, are available to download and post in after-school facilities, community centers, libraries, science centers as well as classrooms.(View Less)

The pedosphere (soil) is the focus of this GLOBE eTraining program module. Protocols for investigating soil temperature, moisture, characterization, density and infiltration are explained. In addition, each module includes interactive digital field...(View More) and lab experiences, and online assessments. Instructions for uploading observations to the GLOBE database as well as for using the GLOBE visualization system are provided. GLOBE eTraining provides the opportunity for new and experienced GLOBE users to complete science protocol training online. GLOBE (Global Learning and Observation to Benefit the Environment) is a worldwide, hands-on, K-12 school-based science education program.(View Less)

The hydrosphere (water, ice, and vapor) is the focus of this GLOBE eTraining module. Protocols for investigating many characteristics of water such as temperature, transparency, electrical conductivity, pH, dissolved oxygen, salinity, nitrates, and...(View More) identifying mosquito larvae are explained. In addition, each module includes interactive digital field and lab experiences, and online assessments. Instructions for uploading observations to the GLOBE database as well as for using the GLOBE visualization system are provided. GLOBE eTraining provides the opportunity for new and experienced GLOBE users to complete science protocol training online. In addition, each module also includes interactive digital field and lab experiences, and online assessments. GLOBE (Global Learning and Observation to Benefit the Environment) is a worldwide, hands-on, K-12 school-based science education program.(View Less)

Using new and recycled materials, learners construct a rocket car that moves by the use of a balloon and a straw system. Following trial runs, learners engineer revisions to the car design to improve the distance that it travels. Templates,...(View More) pictures, worksheets and a lengthy list of suggested construction materials are provided. This activity was designed for use in a library program.(View Less)

Each of us is made from star stuff. But how are stars formed? Take a closer look at the life cycles of stars and learn where stars come from, how they've changed, and what happens to stars when their lives come to an end. Find out about your...(View More) connection to the cosmos. NASA eClips™ are short, relevant educational video segments. These videos inspire and engage students, helping them see real world connections.(View Less)